The Milwaukee Brewers have welcomed a long-awaited return with the activation of All-Star closer Devin Williams. Sidelined since spring training due to stress fractures in his back, Williams's comeback is set to energize the Brewers' bullpen as they push forward in the season.
Williams made his season debut in Sunday's pivotal win over the Miami Marlins. Tasked with safeguarding a four-run lead in the ninth inning, Williams demonstrated a blend of resilience and skill. Though he conceded a single and a walk, the star closer managed to strike out one batter, throwing a total of 24 pitches in his return. Speaking about his comeback, Williams shared, "I don't like sitting on the bench. I don't like being in the dugout. It's not for me. ... It's gratifying to be back to help carry the load. I put in a lot of hard work up to this point over the past couple of months. To be in this position and back on the field, it feels great."
At the age of 30, set to celebrate his birthday in September, Williams brings a remarkable track record to the mound. Between 2021 and 2023, he maintained an impressive 1.97 ERA and boasted an extraordinary 38.7% strikeout rate. Williams’s accolades include winning the 2020 National League Rookie of the Year and earning All-Star honors consecutively in 2022 and 2023.
In anticipation of his return, Williams displayed his dominance during his minor-league rehab assignment, striking out six batters across four scoreless innings. His reactivation provides a significant boost to the Brewers' bullpen, which has been managed by Trevor Megill in Williams's absence. Megill, who served as the team's closer, performed admirably by successfully converting 20 of his 22 save opportunities. Over 33 2/3 innings, Megill maintained a commendable 2.41 ERA with 40 strikeouts.
Williams's return coincides with a crucial stretch in the Brewers' season. With Sunday's victory over the Marlins, the Brewers improved their record to 60-45 and extended their lead in the NL Central to six games. They are now only two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the National League’s No. 2 seed, a testament to the team's robust performance this season, bolstered further by Williams's reentry.
In addition to Williams's return, the Brewers have made several notable roster moves. The team recently acquired pitcher Mears in a three-team trade involving the Colorado Rockies. While Mears has a 5.56 ERA and 1.50 WHIP, the Brewers hope he can contribute positively to their pitching depth. Concurrently, the team designated Janson Junk for assignment, making room for their evolving bullpen dynamics.
As the Brewers march forward in their quest for postseason success, Williams's presence will undoubtedly play a critical role. His potent combination of experience, skill, and determination will be key in navigating the demanding road ahead. The Brewers have shown resilience and depth, exemplified by Megill’s temporary stewardship of the closer role, and with Williams back in the lineup, the team is poised to strengthen its hold on the division.
"It's gratifying to be back to help carry the load," Williams added, embodying the spirit and drive that has become synonymous with his career. His return is not just a personal milestone but a strategic advantage for the Brewers as they aim to solidify their position in the league.